Trip Report: Colorado Hut Trip, December 2011

My first Colorado hut trip was just last month. Pathetic, as I've lived in this great state for the better part of two decades. I assumed what most others have; that hut reservations have to be made a year in advance and are otherwise difficult. My trip was conceived and planned last minute and I was able to book a very nice “hut” just two days before my visit.

Hut descriptions and current vacancy can be viewed online with an actual phone call needed to make payment. It was easy to get through to the staff at the 10^th Mountain Division office and they were very friendly and helpful.  The office emailed my confirmation and itinerary within moments of payment.

These so-called huts are really a mix of back country cabin, log home, and ski lodge. Most include furnished kitchens, wood burning and propane stoves, solar powered lighting, and a wide open floor plan. Other privately owned huts rented through the 10^th Mountain Division, feature backcountry luxury amenities such as saunas and hot showers. The method by which you access a hut varies by season. Most will ski, hike, or snowshoe. Snowmobiles and ATVs are allowed on some routes but I think it’s fair to assume that most of us are looking for a motor-free retreat.

This being my first hut approach and not familiar with any of the trails, I picked an easy to moderate hut trip. There’s one hut in the 10^th Mountain system appropriately named “The 10^th Mountain Division Hut”. It sits about 6 miles due west of Ski Cooper. There are two access routes from the east, varying from 4 miles to 6 miles. Elevation gain from either is around 1,000 feet.  This hut like most others has additional access routes from other huts in the system.

I chose the Crane Park trail-head as our starting point. This route is comprised mostly of rolling single track through a mix of dense pine. The trail opens in the last mile with a steady uphill grade and great panoramic views. From trailhead parking to the 10^th Mountain Hut was just less than four and a half miles. The trail was broke for us already thanks to skiers pulling sleds the previous day. We made it to the hut in less than four hours, taking a few short stops to check navigation. From this route, the hut is not visible until you’re within 100 meters. The trails into the 10^th Mountain Huts are marked with blue diamonds, but with other huts in the area, use caution at trail intersections, checking your direction.

This hut, like so many others, has a main level that features 180 degrees of large windows to enjoy the surrounding meadows and mountain ranges. There is more than enough space and seating for relaxing, eating, etc. The kitchen was large enough for several to use at once and all the cooking essentials such as plates, pots, and utensils, are provided. Water is available at the cabin via a tank fed by the huts roof run-off.  Melting snow on one of the stoves is the most common for drinking water. I would recommend filtering either source.

Two large wood burning stoves provided more than enough warmth during our December stay and an ample wood supply is provided for you. This hut also featured a cold storage closet for keeping perishables overnight. This hut has all of the sleeping capacity on the second level so there is no issue with a late night card game interfering with other guest’s sleep.

  The 10^th Mountain Division Hut is suited for many skill levels, is family friendly, and is in great condition. Trails, lakes, and peaks in the immediate area, offer a great variety of activities. Be sure to check Huts.org for a recommended trip checklist. Go prepared and have fun!